WhaleSpotter’s mission is to save whales by making it safe for them to coexist with maritime operators.
WhaleSpotter is the global standard in AI-powered, expert-verified, real-time whale detection and noise mitigation.
Spun off from more than 10 years of research at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), WhaleSpotter delivers real-time whale presence alerts with 99% efficacy, even in total darkness. Our industry-leading, long-range systems are proven to reduce whale strike risk and increase situational awareness to maximize operational uptime for maritime and offshore energy projects.
By combining high-sensitivity thermal imaging with a global network of expert marine specialists, WhaleSpotter supports regulatory compliance and Environmental, Social, & Governance (ESG) stewardship for the world’s most critically endangered species. From mariners and developers, to regulators and conservationists, we help people see what lies ahead so they can protect what lives below.
WhaleSpotter was born from more than 10 years of field research at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI). Dr. Dan Zitterbart and Dr. Sebastian Richter developed the technology to solve a real-world problem: whales and vessels share the same waters, but whales can surface without warning near vessels or offshore work sites, especially at night or in poor visibility. The product was created, in part, through research at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI). The efficacy of WhaleSpotter’s product was demonstrated through research and information published by researchers at WHOI.
WhaleSpotter is the only solution that combines AI-powered thermal imaging with expert verification. This expert verified model provides:
Absolutely. We drive cost reduction through risk mitigation and operational uptime:
The system is “plug-and-play,” typically installed in under an hour with just four screws and one cable for network and power. Our application works with existing bridge workflows for vessels of any size (minimum 15 ft mounting elevation). We provide global on-site setup or remote guidance, including hardware, software, and crew training.
While we can’t quantify “saves,” we quantify certainty. With over 90% detection efficacy, we provide mariners the lead time necessary to take evasive action, turning potential “accidental strikes” into successful avoidance.
WhaleSpotter provides the high-stakes data and mitigation required for modern ESG disclosure:
At long distances, whale blows have a low signal-to-noise ratio. AI identifies the initial pattern, and our global network of experts confirms the sighting in seconds. This hybrid model is currently the only way to achieve a near-zero false alert rate, while reliably detecting whales in distances far enough to allow captains sufficient time for non-intrusive evasive maneuvers. For marine construction, the expert verification provides vetted data for informed decision making by the lead protected species observer (PSO).
Yes. Designed for the harshest maritime conditions, from the Arctic to the Tropics, the hardware has been field-tested for over a decade. Every WhaleSpotter is encased in marine-grade housing.
Marine mammal disruption in busy global waterways is a growing challenge. Traditional whale spotting often relies on human observers alone, limited by visibility, fatigue, changing conditions, and inconsistent reporting. WhaleSpotter strengthens awareness, combining advanced AI with expert human verification to deliver continuous, reliable whale detection that reduces operational blind spots and supports safer, more responsible operations.
We are a cross-disciplinary team of AI scientists, marine biologists, conservation experts, and maritime technology specialists dedicated to helping people and whales safely share the ocean. Together, we combine scientific rigor, operational experience, and deep respect for marine life to deliver trusted whale detection and awareness worldwide.
Shawn Henry brings over 30 years of experience in bringing technology products to market. He has founded and scaled multiple startups into successful companies through both organic growth and acquisition. As CEO, he oversees all commercial operations, including product development, manufacturing, and execution.
Dr. Daniel Zitterbart has been researching surface-based methods for marine life detection since 2009 as an Associate Scientist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. As a co-founder and Chief Scientist of WhaleSpotter, he brings deep scientific expertise and continues to advance techniques for real-time mammal monitoring.
Dr. Sebastian Richter has been developing autonomous megafauna observation systems since 2010. As Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, he brings more than a decade of experience operating remote sensing technologies at global scale, from emperor penguins to marine mammals. At WhaleSpotter, Sebastian leads technology development, ensuring the system's reliability, performance, and readiness for real-world marine operations.
Theresa McLaughlin brings decades of global marketing and brand leadership to our mission. Renowned for transforming customer experiences and driving growth through data-driven strategy, she has led award-winning brand initiatives recognized with an Emmy, a Cannes Lion, and multiple EFFIE Awards. At WhaleSpotter, Theresa leads the company’s marketing vision – strengthening brand recognition, deepening customer engagement, and building scalable systems that align innovation with measurable business impact.
Karen Benedetti brings more than 30 years of marketing leadership experience helping financial services, mission-driven organizations, start-ups, and other businesses define and achieve their goals, from strategy through tailored marketing and sales solutions. Karen has a strong passion to serve customers and communities to help them thrive.
Conor Byrne holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Northeastern University and has worked across several sustainability-focused startups, including Form Energy and Boston Materials. At WhaleSpotter, he contributes across hardware, electrical systems, and operations to help bring new technologies to life.
Owen Chiu is pursuing his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Northeastern University and has worked across a variety of industries in the Boston area, from consumer devices to bioprocess equipment to robotics. At WhaleSpotter, he works at the intersection of hardware and electronics to accelerate innovation.
Alex Doherty is pursuing his degree in Mechanical Engineering at Northeastern University and has experience spanning bioengineering and product design in the Boston area. At WhaleSpotter, he contributes across both hardware and electrical systems to support the development of new technology.
Ethan Fantl is a Software Engineer with a degree in Computer Science from Colorado State University. Coming from a background developing site reliability in aerospace launch systems and satellite networking, Ethan is responsible for supporting infrastructure and automation at WhaleSpotter.
Dr. Aymeric Houstin is a conservation-focused scientist with global field experience—from the poles to Africa to North America. As head of the ‘Spotters’ team, he ensures the delivery of high-quality whale monitoring services while enabling the safe continuation of marine operations.
Dr. Julia Schottenhamml brings valuable expertise in machine learning and computer vision to WhaleSpotter. With a PhD in Computer Science, she focuses on developing AI algorithms that improve how we monitor and protect marine species, helping us create smarter solutions for marine conservation.
Dr. Alexander Winterl combines a strong scientific foundation with practical engineering skills to develop AI-powered tools for wildlife detection and environmental monitoring. With deep expertise in machine learning, computer vision, and real-time systems, he has played a key role in building WhaleSpotter’s image analysis and data infrastructure from its inception.
We collaborate with industry leaders, NGOs, and regulatory partners to advance the future of ocean-safe operations.
